Omotola Jalade condemns begging culture, urges Nigerians to work

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde criticized Nigeria’s entitlement mentality, saying Nigerians now have a culture of begging and urging people not to beg except in life‑and‑death situations. Speaking on Activating Success With Love Idoko, she said, “A lot of Nigerians take opportunities for granted. And one thing we have to understand is that nobody owes you anything. Nigerians now have a culture of begging.” She added, “I don’t support or encourage begging. I believe that there is no reason why anybody can’t work. There is something you can do. There is a kind of value you can bring to humanity.”

Her remarks highlight a growing debate about self‑reliance versus dependency amid economic hardship. By framing begging as a matter of personal choice and self‑worth, Omotola pushes the conversation toward individual responsibility, suggesting that even those with needs should avoid begging unless faced with dire necessity. This perspective resonates in a country where many struggle with unemployment and inflation, yet also raises questions about the adequacy of social support systems.

What should Nigerians take from this? Should they embrace self‑reliance and reject entitlement, or is there a need for stronger community and governmental safety nets to prevent desperation? Reflecting on where personal effort ends and societal help begins could shape more constructive attitudes toward work and welfare.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/17/nigerians-now-have-culture-of-begging-omotola-jalade/